Gatso Speed Camera
The most common fixed speed camera in the UK, named after inventor Maurice Gatsonides.
Manufacturer
Sensys Gatso Group (Netherlands)
Detection Method
Doppler radar + rear photograph
Flash
Yes (rear flash)
Enforcement Threshold
No guaranteed tolerance
How Gatso Cameras Work
Uses Doppler radar to measure vehicle speed. When triggered, takes a rear-facing photograph with a bright flash. White road markings help verify speed by measuring distance travelled between marks.
Key Facts
Does It Flash?
Yes (rear flash)
Typical Locations
Urban A-roads, residential areas near schools, accident blackspots
Detection Method
Doppler radar + rear photograph
How to Identify a Gatso
- Yellow box-shaped housing
- Mounted on post facing AWAY from traffic
- White painted lines on road surface
- Visible flash unit on rear
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Gatso cameras flash?
Yes, Gatso cameras produce a bright rear-facing flash when triggered.
How accurate are Gatso speed cameras?
Equipment used as evidence must meet the applicable type-approval and operating requirements. There is no legal tolerance: any speed above the posted limit can be enforced, although operational guidance and police discretion affect how individual cases are handled.
How do Gatso cameras detect speed?
Uses Doppler radar to measure vehicle speed. When triggered, takes a rear-facing photograph with a bright flash. White road markings help verify speed by measuring distance travelled between marks.
Where are Gatso cameras typically found?
Urban A-roads, residential areas near schools, accident blackspots
Other Camera Types
Truvelo
A forward-facing fixed speed camera that photographs the driver. Unlike Gatso, it uses infrared flash invisible to drivers.
Read the guide →
SPECS (Average Speed)
Average speed camera system using ANPR to calculate speed over a distance. Cannot be beaten by braking at camera locations.
Read the guide →
HADECS3
Highway Agency Digital Enforcement Camera System. Used on smart motorways to enforce variable speed limits.
Read the guide →